When you hear the name Tochigi Prefecture, most people will immediately think of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
However, apart from this shrine, there are many other interesting tourist spots worth exploring in Tochigi.
In this article, we have selected five of the best tourist spots in Tochigi that you should add to your travel list.
1. Nikko Toshogu
Nikko Toshogu is a magnificent shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the influential figure who brought Japan into an era of peace for more than 250 years.
This shrine is the main symbol of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Nikko’s Shrines and Temples” and is the only World Heritage site in Tochigi Prefecture.
Built around 400 years ago, much of the current structure was renovated by Tokugawa Iemitsu in 1636.
The shrine complex features more than 5,000 artistic carvings. Two of the most famous are the “Three Wise Monkeys” (see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil) and the “Sleeping Cat” statue.
While exploring the complex, visitors can experience the cultural atmosphere of the Edo period and admire the craftsmanship of ancient Japanese artisans.
The shrine consists of 55 buildings, including 8 National Treasures and 34 Important Cultural Properties.
Nikko Toshogu is also known as a spiritual location with positive energy. Every year, the shrine hosts various festivals that attract many visitors.
- Address: 2301 Sannai, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture
- Operating hours:
- April 1 – October 31: 09:00 – 17:00
- November 1 – March 31: 09:00 – 16:00 (Visitor admission ends 30 minutes before closing)
- Ticket prices:
- Adults/High school: 1,300 yen
- Children (Junior high school and below): 450 yen
2. Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura
Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura is a cultural theme park that lets visitors experience life during the Edo period.
Here, you can interact with “Edo residents,” try playing the shamisen, experience traditional geisha makeup, and enjoy various cultural activities that showcase the spirit of that era.
Visitors can also rent costumes from the Edo period and transform into a samurai, ninja, or Edo townspeople. This isn’t just a visit—it’s an exciting and interactive time-travel experience.
The park features several theaters with Edo-style performances, a history museum, and restaurants serving Edo-period dishes. All these elements combine to offer a complete experience—visually, audibly, and in taste.
- Address: 470-2 Karakura, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture
- Operating hours:
- Normal: 09:00 – 17:00
- December 1 – March 19: 09:30 – 16:00
- Ticket prices:
- Junior high school and above: 5,800 yen
- Elementary school: 3,000 yen
- Preschool children: Free
Read:
6 Must-Buy Tochigi Souvenirs, Take Home Local Delights!
3. Kegon Falls (Kegon no Taki)
Kegon Falls is one of Japan’s Three Most Beautiful Waterfalls. The water cascades dramatically from a 97-meter cliff, creating a magnificent and impressive view. This is one of the best tourist spots in Tochigi.
The waterfall originates from Lake Chuzenji, where the lake’s water plunges freely down the steep cliff, displaying the tremendous power of nature.
From the observation deck, you can enjoy the grand panorama while appreciating the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Want to get closer? Take the Kegon observation lift to descend directly to the base of the waterfall.
From there, you can feel the rush of water and hear the splashing sound up close, making the experience even more powerful.
Each season offers a different view. In May, the waterfall is surrounded by the fresh green of new leaves. June brings a scene of swarming swallows in flight.
Meanwhile, winter (January–February) presents the mesmerizing “blue ice” phenomenon as the waterfall freezes. Its beauty always changes, but it remains captivating year-round.
- Address: Chugushi, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture
- Operating hours:
- December–February: 09:00–16:30
- March–April: 09:00–17:00
- May–November: 08:00–17:00 (Operating hours may vary depending on the season and weather)
- Observation ticket prices:
- Adults: 570 yen
- Elementary school children: 340 yen
4. Lake Chuzenji
Lake Chuzenji lies at the entrance to Oku-Nikko, situated 1,269 meters above sea level, making it Japan’s highest natural lake.
Around 20,000 years ago, the eruption of Mount Nantai formed this lake. Its water is crystal clear, and each season brings different beauty.
The lake is not only a place to enjoy the scenery, but it also offers fun activities such as stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and boat tours.
Visitors can experience the beauty of nature from a closer perspective.
A boat tour is the best way to enjoy the charm of the lake, especially in spring and summer when azalea flowers bloom.
In autumn, don’t miss the “autumn cruise” to see the reflection of red leaves on the lake’s surface—perfect for those who love the serene atmosphere of fall.
- Address: Chugushi, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture
- Operating hours: –
- Ticket prices: –
5. Sano Yakuyoke Daishi
Sano Yakuyoke Daishi is a Tendai Buddhist temple located in Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture. The temple is famous for warding off misfortune and eliminating bad luck. It is also one of the three largest Daishi temples in the Kanto region.
The temple enshrines Yakuyoke Daishi Ryōgen, and every year, people from both within and outside Tochigi visit to pray for protection from misfortune, good luck, and safety from harmful directions.
Many also believe this temple is one of the original places where omikuji (fortune slips) originated, a practice now commonly found at many temples and Shinto shrines.
As a result, many pilgrims come specifically to draw omikuji (fortune slips), making it one of the strongest spiritual spots in the Kanto region.
During the New Year, the atmosphere at the temple is festive. During the New Year festival (Shōgatsu Taisai), the number of visitors can exceed one million.
The streets around the temple are filled with food stalls and typical New Year excitement, creating an energetic and cheerful atmosphere.
- Address: 2233 Kasugaokayama, Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture
- Operating hours: Registration 08:20–17:00 (Operating hours may vary during the year-end and New Year holidays. Please check the official website for the latest information.)
- Fees: Free
Tochigi Prefecture offers the perfect combination of beautiful nature, rich culture, and exciting activities.
It’s great for a road trip, enjoying the autumn foliage, hunting for Instagrammable spots, visiting amusement parks, and interacting with animals.
Let’s follow this recommendation and experience the excitement of exploring the five best tourist spots in Tochigi. Get ready for a vacation full of surprises and unforgettable memories!
